Panda's Pause: A Mindfulness Book for Young Children
Panda's Pause introduces young readers to essential self-regulation skills through the gentle story of Paz the Panda. This children's book teaches toddlers and preschoolers the importance of pausing before reacting, helping them develop emotional awareness and calming techniques from an early age.
Teaching Self-Regulation Through Story
The book centers on a simple yet powerful message: Pause. Always be aware. Wait until you are calm to respond with love and care. Speak from the heart. These four principles guide children through understanding their emotions and learning to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
Paz the Panda serves as a relatable character for young children navigating big emotions. The story demonstrates practical breathing exercises and calming techniques that children can apply when feeling overwhelmed, making it an effective tool for managing tantrums and emotional outbursts.
Ideal for Classrooms and Home
This paperback book functions as both a classroom resource and parenting tool. Teachers can incorporate it into social emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and character education programs. Parents will find it valuable for bedtime reading and teaching emotional regulation during challenging moments.
The mindfulness concepts are presented in age-appropriate language that resonates with the baby-preschool age group, making complex emotional concepts accessible to young minds still developing their emotional vocabulary.
About the Creative Team
Rebecca Hirsch is an active member of SCBWI-Wisconsin and volunteers within the chapter. She lives with her husband and two children, and can be found online at rhirschillustration.com, or on Instagram as rhirschillus.
Dr. Amanda DeSua is a school counselor in Wisconsin. After writing and publishing her first book, Frog Slime: A Child's Guide to Calming Down, she couldn't wait to work on another book on mindfulness. When she's not writing or working with students, she enjoys hiking, cooking, and spending time with her husband and two daughters. She hopes this book helps people of all ages to remember to pause.
Book Details
Published by Orange Hat Publishing, this juvenile fiction title focuses on emotions, feelings, manners, and social themes. The book provides practical tools for developing self-regulation skills that benefit children throughout their lives.
